Construction
Discover Why Railroad Ave. Construction Delayed to 2025
2024-12-02
Construction activities on Railroad Ave. in College Town are set to persist until early 2025. The city of Tallahassee had initially anticipated its completion by the end of 2024; however, severe weather events have caused significant setbacks. Now, let's listen to a college student who frequently traverses this road.

Unraveling the Delays on Railroad Ave. Construction

Initial Project Timeline and Its Alteration

When construction on Railroad Ave. commenced late last year, the city of Tallahassee projected a one-year duration. But as time has passed, it's evident that this timeline is not being adhered to. One year has elapsed, yet the work site remains active. Alberto Camargo, the College Town neighborhood reporter, is here to shed light on why the project has been delayed and how much longer it will take.During the past year since construction began, the impact on local businesses and the confusion caused by the irregular construction schedule for neighbors have been significant. The work that was supposed to be completed by now is still several months away.

Reason for Delays: Severe Weather Events

Public infrastructure and engineering manager Eric Gooch explains that the progress has been backed up due to severe weather events this year. In addition to the rain days accounted for, there have been a few unexpected utility hiccups and similar issues. These are common occurrences during any construction project.

The Focus on Pedestrian Safety and Future Improvements

The work on Railroad Ave. is primarily centered around prioritizing pedestrian safety. A wide multi-use trail is planned for the west side of the road, where construction has not yet begun. Laci Smoot, a FAMU student, shared her perspective. As an out-of-state student without transportation, the sidewalk is crucial as it is her only means to get groceries. She has been walking up and down Railroad Ave. for years and looks forward to the new-look design once the construction is completed. "Since the driving here is so bad, I really appreciate the sidewalks. The less I have to cross the street, the better," she said.Alongside the road work, a new housing project is also taking shape. Buildings that once housed Roboto Tokyo Grill and the old GVO nightclub have been demolished to make way for a five-story apartment building with 76 units. The city of Tallahassee now estimates that the project will be completed by early 2025. In College Town, Alberto Camargo from ABC27 continues to keep us updated on these developments.
Two Men Pretending as Construction Workers Arrested at Kyle Field
2024-12-02
On Saturday night, an astonishing incident unfolded at Kyle Field. Two men, in a rather comical attempt, were trying to gain entry without tickets. Their method was equally bizarre - posing as construction workers with reflective vests and hard hats.

Unbelievable Encounter at the Stadium

Section 1: The Unorthodox Entry Attempt

According to the Texas A&M Police Department, these two individuals thought they could deceive their way into the stadium. They donned the attire of construction workers, believing it would grant them access. However, their ruse was quickly uncovered. This incident showcases the lengths some people will go to in order to achieve their goals, even if it means breaking the rules. It serves as a reminder of the importance of following proper procedures and obtaining the necessary tickets. 2: Such behavior is not only illegal but also shows a lack of respect for the rules and the institution. Kyle Field is a place of pride and tradition, and these men's actions undermined that. It is crucial that such incidents are addressed promptly to maintain the integrity of the stadium and the events held there.

Section 2: The Disguised Identities

Arrest affidavits revealed that the men had pictures of themselves as ID photos, but with names like "Harry Azcrac" and "Duncan McCockiner". This adds another layer of intrigue to the story. It shows how far some people will go to hide their true identities. Their choice of names is both unusual and memorable, leaving everyone wondering about their motives. 2: The fact that they were arrested and booked into the Brazos County Jail for Criminal Trespass further emphasizes the seriousness of their actions. It serves as a warning to others that attempting to enter a stadium without proper authorization will not be tolerated.

Section 3: Other Incidents of the Evening

The evening at TAMU PD was filled with more than just the attempt to enter Kyle Field. There were other highlights, such as a man riding a longhorn on campus with his dog. Although he agreed to leave after being informed of the university rules violation, it still caused a stir. Another incident involved an individual with a fake ticket being ejected. And perhaps the most controversial was an intoxicated individual being released to "sober wife". 2: This isn't the first time such an incident has occurred this season, and it has sparked a lot of debate among commenters. Some believe that the individual should have been arrested instead of being released to his wife. The theme of this section is the various strange and unexpected events that took place during the evening, highlighting the need for better control and management.
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Sugar House Businesses: Holiday Construction Halt Brings Relief
2024-12-02
In Sugar House along a section of 2100 South, small business owners are finally getting a much-needed break. Emily Potts, the owner of Sugar House Coffee, who has run the place for 14 years, expressed relief as construction has come to a halt during the holidays. "Okay we can pay this next paycheck," she said, adding that this year with construction was one of the worst financial years she's seen. Potts told KSL TV that they are down about 33%.

Impact of Construction on Businesses

For more than a year, orange barrels, lane closures, and traffic congestion have been a common sight along 2100 South between 1300 East and 1000 East. This has made it extremely difficult for customers to find parking and navigate to many of the businesses. Some businesses had no choice but to close their doors. Derek Williamson, a small business owner and vice chair of the Sugar House Community Council, mentioned the loss of Sugar House Barbecue, Pizza Volta, and Fiddler's Elbow. He said that countless other little coffee shops and cafes also couldn't make it through.However, what businesses are now seeing along 2100 South is a welcome change. Free-flowing traffic with no orange barrels or lane closures is a one-month holiday gift from the city of Salt Lake.

Employee Well-being

Potts emphasized the importance of keeping her 19 employees working. "My 19 employees are my kids, and so I wanted them to keep their hours. And the thought of having to cut their hours is tough," she said. She paid them as much as she could while also doing what was necessary to keep the doors open.

Return of Foot Traffic

Barber Kyle Condie, who owns Sugar House Barber Shop, noticed a significant change. "The roads are clear of construction. There are no cones anywhere, no blockage. People are out walking around again," he said. This increase in foot traffic is a positive sign for his business.

Businesses Thriving Again

Jennifer Williamson, the owner of Olio Skin and Beard Co., expressed her delight. "Looking beautiful," she said. "Our street was pretty torn apart before, so we are seeing the beauty come out of it now." She emphasized the importance of this holiday season for small businesses. "Fourth quarter for all small businesses makes our year, and to have this section of Sugar House open for our small businesses to try and maximize their dollar this holiday season means everything," she said.That's why Williamson wants everyone to know, "I want to tell the public Sugar House is open. Come shop, come enjoy eating, drinking, and shopping these small businesses."Follow @KSL5TV
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